Deal returns more than a half-million to borough sewer fund, keeps land undeveloped at Souderton-Hatfield Pike and East Cherry Lane
Souderton Borough Council has approved the sale of a 3.82-acre tax-exempt parcel at Souderton-Hatfield Pike and East Cherry Lane to Franconia Township for $570,000, with plans to preserve the land as open space.
Borough Solicitor John Torrente said at the April 6 meeting the sale price reflects the appraised value of the property and described the agreement as a straightforward transaction that could move forward quickly.
The parcel is part of a larger tract that exists in Franconia Township, but acquired by the borough in 2009 and later subdivided in 2024. Borough Manager Sara Jarrett-Eaton said Franconia intends to purchase the land using open space funds, with preservation requirements to be included in the agreement of sale.
Because the property was originally purchased using sewer funds, proceeds from the sale will be returned to the account, she said.
One councilman said the property had long posed challenges for development, with past uses including soccer fields proving unsuccessful. He noted the borough had explored selling the land for years, with potential commercial uses previously considered, like an auto parts store or gas station.
"When Sara struck a deal with Franconia Township to make it open space, I think council was really excited about that we get the appraised value of the property and it stays as open space for the community and doesn’t become something undesirable," he said. "So I think this is a triumph."
According to Montgomery County property records, it was assessed at $93,370 in 1998, and then reassessed to $50,000 upon appeal. The parcel became tax exempt in 2010.
The property was formerly owned by the Mennonite Foundation, who sold it for $185,000 to William & Walt Scholl in 1984, according to Montgomery County property records.
